Ratatouille: A Classic French Vegetable Stew

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple & Fresh: This dish is made with fresh, seasonal vegetables and herbs, showcasing the flavors of the summer harvest.

• Versatile: Ratatouille can be served as a side with meat, or on its own as a vegetarian main dish. It’s perfect with rice, pasta, or even crusty French bread.

• Packed with Flavor: The combination of olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs like parsley, basil, and thyme, paired with the sweetness of the vegetables, creates an irresistible taste.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 eggplant, cut into ½-inch cubes

• 2 teaspoons dried parsley

• Salt, to taste

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 zucchini, sliced

• 2 large tomatoes, chopped

• 2 cups sliced fresh mushrooms

• 1 large onion, sliced into rings

• 1 green or red bell pepper, sliced

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Oven and Casserole Dish

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Coat the bottom and sides of a 1 ½-quart casserole dish with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.

2. Cook the Eggplant

• Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat.

• Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and golden brown, about 1 minute.

• Add the eggplant and dried parsley. Cook and stir until the eggplant is tender and soft, about 10 minutes.

• Season with salt to taste.

3. Layer the Vegetables

• Spread the cooked eggplant mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.

• Sprinkle with a few tablespoons of Parmesan cheese.

• Layer the zucchini slices evenly over the eggplant, lightly salt, and sprinkle with more cheese.

• Continue layering with the chopped tomatoes, sliced mushrooms, onion rings, and sliced bell pepper, salting and sprinkling cheese with each layer.

4. Bake the Ratatouille

• Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

5. Serve

• Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 45 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Add Protein: For a more hearty dish, you can add cooked chicken, sausage, or tofu in between the layers.

• Add Herbs: Fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary can also be added for more depth of flavor.

• Use Different Vegetables: You can experiment by adding or swapping other vegetables like yellow squash or carrots.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I make ratatouille ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add the cheese and bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze ratatouille?

Yes, you can freeze ratatouille. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight and reheat in the oven.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried herbs instead of fresh, but use about half the amount of dried herbs as the recipe calls for fresh.

What can I serve with ratatouille?

Ratatouille can be served with crusty French bread, rice, pasta, or alongside a protein like chicken, fish, or beef. It also works well as a side for grilled meats.

How can I make ratatouille spicier?

If you prefer a spicier version, add some red pepper flakes or a finely chopped jalapeño to the mix.

Conclusion

This Ratatouille is a classic French dish that’s packed with fresh, vibrant flavors. Whether served as a main dish or as a side, it’s a comforting and healthy option that’s sure to impress your guests. Enjoy the combination of tender vegetables and aromatic herbs in every bite!

Print